GILLIS COIGNET (1542–1599)

Oil on wood, signed lower right: C. G. Expert analysis: Dr. Klaus Ertz, Lingen. The painting was executed by the Flemish painter Gilles Coignet in the last third of the 16th century. During this period, it was common, and more or less required, for painters to spend time living and working in Italy. Coignet specialised primarily in landscapes, and the influence of Tizian and Tintoretto can be seen in his work. In the foreground, executed in warm tones, is a multi-figural composition, while on the right side we see Golgotha, the place where Christ was crucified, according to the Bible. The crosses for the two thieves that were crucified with Christ are already erected on the sacred hill. The third cross is borne by Christ alone at the head of the procession. In the middle ground, the colours gradually take on an icy blue tone. The vague outlines of a town are indicated, most likely Jerusalem, and in the far background, a mountainous landscape is depicted.